Letter from the Executive Director
and Board Chair
The theme of 2017 is “Innovation Into Action.” Anderson Ranch Arts Center continues to grow and exceed the goals and expectations of the prior year (in this case,
our 50th Anniversary!), in part because we continue to innovate. Externally, we stand out by offering unique programs; internally, we constantly conceive and execute
on initiatives that are relevant to our Long Range Plan.
Some key examples?
Financial Stewardship We met and exceeded our goals for 2017, adding funds to the capital reserve account for our future.
Accessibility & Affordability Nearly 30% of our students received financial assistance, and we grew the endowment and scholarship funds to make life-
changing and career advancing opportunities possible for more artists than ever before.
Rigor & Excellence In “Black Mountain College: then and now,” Helen Molesworth and Anoka Faruqee educated Critical Dialog program participants about
our roots as an artists community.
Meanwhile, Amber Bracken, a photography student in the Center for Advanced Mentored Studies won the 60th Annual World Photo Contest with her photo
essay covering Standing Rock and the Dakota Access Pipeline.
117 students participated in the Scholarship/Partnership program from 59 leading colleges and universities.
The Summer Series: Featured Artists & Conversations was filled to the maximum.
Excellence in Facilities We added new tools and equipment to the sculpture and ceramics programs with monies received from the Windgate Foundation
and updated and expanded the children’s building.
Brand Awareness We were more visible than ever before in national and international media, as each outstanding Summer Series builds on prior success.
Meanwhile, our workshops continued to engage and educate, with offerings such as Tech Workshops for kids, offering an intersection of art and technology;
the only program of its kind in the Roaring Fork Valley.
It was a year of innovation which led to growth, fun and stability-- providing momentum for a fabulous 2018!
Warm regards,
David Fuente Nancy J. Wilhelms
Chair, Board of Trustees Executive Director
2017
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